USS Galileo :: Biography - Montgomery Vala

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01 Nov 2024 @ 6:34am

Lieutenant JG Montgomery Vala

Name Montgomery Vala

Position Deputy Science Officer

Rank Lieutenant JG


Character Information

Gender Male
Species ¾ Romulan, ¼ Human
Age 49
Date of Birth 2343
Place of Birth Dhaelthra IV

Character Type

Category Primary Character (PC)

Starfleet ID

Serial Number MR-323-3009
Rank Class Junior Officer
Security Clearance Level 5
Duty Watch Team 2

Physical Appearance

Height 6'3"
Weight 220lb
Hair Color Salt and Pepper
Eye Color Green
Physical Description Montgomery Vala stands at an imposing 6'3" with a lean yet muscular physique which he is careful to maintain through martial arts practice and survival training. His skin is tinged with the green of his Rihannsu kin. His face is defined by sharp, angular features, with light ridges on his forehead. It is framed by salt and pepper hair - though it leans more towards pepper - which kept at a short to medium length. It is combed back but it rarely obeys convention, and is often ruffled or slightly flicky.

Pointed ears, a hallmark of his lineage, add to his distinct appearance. His eyes are a captivating shade of green, often leaving those who engage with him feeling as if they are scrutinised.

Vala moves with disciplined purpose, yet there's an underlying grace to his steps that suggests he has a high level of coordination. A faint scar runs across his right cheek, a lasting memento from a confrontation with the Tal Shiar. His right knee also shows signs of surgical repair, a permanent reminder of the injury he sustained while fleeing from Romulan territory; he is haunted by an infrequent limp as a result.
Body Art None
Portrait

Family

Spouse Celia i'Varul (Presumed Dead)
Children None
Father Valaek
Mother T'Nael i'Varul (Presumed Dead)
Brother(s) Unknown
Sister(s) Unknown
Other Family Unknown
Pets None

Personality & Traits

General Overview Montgomery Vala is a man shaped by the richness of his diverse experiences. Raised in the Romulan Empire and later finding a home in the Federation, he possesses a unique blend of the scientist's analytical thinking and a survivalist's keen instincts. His reserved, earnest demeanor may come across as elusive, but those who get past this initial impression discover an individual deeply thoughtful and empathic. Vala balances the political shrewdness and discipline imparted by his Romulan upbringing with a commitment to diversity and open dialogue he gained from his time in the Federation. He has an astute sense of humor, but one has to look carefully to catch it, often coming in the form of a wry comment or a keenly timed pause. He's not just a man of science; he's a man of nuanced emotion and layered loyalty, every facet shaped by the multiplicity of his life experiences.
Strengths Montgomery's strengths are primarily intellectual and emotional. His background in both Romulan and Federation sciences affords him a unique perspective in solving complex, interdisciplinary problems. Apart from being scientifically astute, he is a proven leader, capable of efficiently managing departments even in hazardous conditions. His understanding of Romulan and Federation diplomacy and political intricacies is an invaluable asset, especially during interstellar negotiations. His emotional resilience also allows him to navigate high-stress situations with an equanimity that often calms those around him.
Weaknesses Montgomery is a complex individual whose emotional scars have shaped both his strengths and weaknesses. His Romulan upbringing and the rejection he faced from the Romulan Empire have left him wary of fully trusting others, often leading him to be overly cautious in forming interpersonal relationships. This caution sometimes hampers team dynamics and can make him appear aloof, imperious or standoffish, even if he is deeply committed to the mission and the safety of the crew. Montgomery's analytic approach to problems, while a strength in scientific pursuits, can be a liability in high-stress, time-sensitive situations where quick, decisive action is needed. Compounding this, he will occassionally cling to his scientific theories with a stubbornness that makes him resistant to alternative viewpoints, potentially leading to conflict within his team.
Ambitions Montgomery harbours no illusions of bridging the divide between the Romulan Empire and the Federation - especially given the Empire's rejection of him. Instead, his ambitions are squarely aimed at the pursuit of scientific excellence. He aspires to make ground-breaking contributions in the field of Temporal Mechanics, seeking to become a leading authority who has not only theorised but also applied those theories to significant real-world challenges. His drive to climb through the Starfleet ranks is fuelled by a desire to have a broader platform for his scientific endeavours and to influence Starfleet's approach to scientific exploration and ethics.
Hobbies & Interests Montgomery leads a balanced life, enriched by a diverse range of hobbies and interests. The holodeck is his sanctuary, where he can dive into different worlds and historical epochs. His love for literature spans from scientific journals to classic Earth novels and Romulan philosophical texts. Traditional Romulan board games like "Khariat" and Federation games like 3D chess intrigue him equally. Physical fitness and well-being are important to him, whether it's through practicing martial arts, Terran yoga, or Vulcan meditation. Classical music serves as his mental escape, offering a soothing counterpoint to his high-stakes professional life.
Vernacular Montgomery speaks like someone who's juggled cultures. He has a fairly thick Rihannsu accent as he speaks. While he tends to lean formal, likely a carryover from his Romulan upbringing, you'll catch him using Federation slang or casual phrases when he's more relaxed or trying to make a point. It's not uncommon for him to drop a light joke or a sarcastic quip, often at moments when you least expect it. All in all, the way he talks gives you a sense of who he is: a man of both precision and paradox, walking the line between two worlds.
Orientation Heterosexual
Language(s) Spoken Federation Standard, Romulan

Personal History Montgomery Vala's life has the contours of an epic, woven through a tapestry of cultures, scientific discoveries, and a relentless pursuit for survival. Born Rh'vaurekorn i'Varul in 2343 on Dhaelthra IV, a small Romulan border colony, his origins were humble but fraught with complexities that would shape his future in unimaginable ways.

His mother, T'Nael i'Varul, was a woman of refined sensibilities and a complex lineage. A fusion of Romulan and human genes, T'Nael was born from a short-lived but passionate union between a Romulan officer and a human linguist during a diplomatic mission. The duality of her heritage made her a woman of unique intellect and emotional depth. She met Rh'vaurekorn's father, a Romulan dignitary named Valaek, during one of his diplomatic visits to Dhaelthra IV. Despite their affection for each other, Valaek was already married, and their relationship remained a guarded secret. T'Nael knew that her son would face societal obstacles due to his mixed heritage; thus, she devoted herself entirely to his education and upbringing.

Growing up, young Montgomery was deeply influenced by the stories, teachings, and traditions his mother imparted to him. Even with Valaek's absence due to his diplomatic commitments, T'Nael ensured that her son had a strong grounding in Romulan culture, language, and the essentials of survival and combat. Under the careful guidance of a handpicked mentor, Montgomery honed his physical skills, mastering Romulan martial arts and survival techniques. Highly intelligent but also sometimes too meticulous for his own good, he learned strategy through traditional Romulan board games like "Khariat," as well as through historical Romulan military campaigns, which his mother recounted like epic sagas.

As Montgomery entered his teen years, his affinity for the sciences began to overshadow his combative skills. His mother, foreseeing the importance of adaptability in a constantly evolving universe, wholeheartedly encouraged this newfound interest. At age 17, he was accepted into the prestigious Romulan Academy for Science and Technology, one of the youngest candidates ever to gain admission. There, Montgomery flourished. His natural talents in subatomic physics rivalled his exceptional analytical skills, and he took to his studies like a Tarkalean hawk to the skies. Three years later, he graduated near the top of his class. His dissertation on "Quantum Oscillations in Variable Geometry Cloaking Fields" caught the attention of some of the most esteemed scientists in the Romulan Empire.

After his academic triumphs, Montgomery stood at the threshold of another defining chapter in his life: applied research. Amidst lingering suspicions owing to his mixed heritage, it was his undeniable prowess and the strong recommendations of his mentors that landed him a position in a top-secret cloaking technology lab led by Dr. Toreth Ar'Vul. Here, Montgomery made significant contributions that caused a ground-breaking paradigm shift in cloaking theory. This discovery had far-reaching military applications and strategic implications, affirming his place as a rising star in the scientific community.

This professional achievement did not go unnoticed; Montgomery and his team received commendations from the Romulan Senate and the Praetor himself. It was during this high-stakes period that he met Celia Keirianh, a razor-sharp aide to the commander of the military section of the Academy. Intrigued by the unassuming scientist often found scribbling notes on archaic parchment, Celia admired his pragmatic outlook and logical mind, which stood in refreshing contrast to a society often governed by pride and elaborate theatrics. Montgomery, in turn, was drawn to her sagacious nature and clarity of thought. Their emotional frequencies resonated, and the two held a discreet yet heartfelt wedding ceremony on Romulus.

However, this serenity was short-lived. The Romulan Empire, reeling from the aftershocks of the Dominion War and internal power struggles, began a vicious political purge. Montgomery, due to his mixed heritage and perceived lack of allegiance to the imperial hierarchy, found himself on the Tal Shiar's radar. In a swift and brutal move, both his beloved wife Celia and his mother T'Nael were taken by the feared intelligence agency. Rumors swirled about their detention and the unspeakable torture they were subjected to in the hands of their captors.

To make matters worse, Montgomery was apprehended in a surprise raid. He was subjected to weeks of physical and psychological torment by the Tal Shiar. During one particularly brutal interrogation session, his knee was grievously injured, an ailment that would leave him with a permanent limp and recurrent pain. But as every day passed, his resolve grew stronger. Drawing upon his intelligence and the survival skills ingrained in him from a young age, he meticulously planned his escape.

When the opportunity finally arose, he executed his plan flawlessly, managing to evade his captors and commandeer a damaged shuttle. Making his way through the perilous expanse of space, his journey was fraught with hazards, from unpredictable nebulae to pursuing Romulan ships.

After what felt like a lifetime, Montgomery reached the fringes of Federation space. Exhausted and in dire need of medical attention, he was discovered by the USS Invincible, which promptly sent him to Earth. Montgomery’s subsequent debriefing became an arduous process, and his physical and emotional wounds, particularly the loss of Celia and T'Nael, were scars that would take time to heal.

Once he arrived on Earth, he faced an intense debriefing. It was during this process that Rh'vaurekorn—now choosing to go by the human name 'Montgomery' to distance himself from his Romulan past—displayed surprising transparency with Starfleet Intelligence. Eager to forge a new path and still reeling from his mistreatment at the hands of the Tal Shiar, Montgomery was exceptionally forthcoming, much to the satisfaction of his interrogators.

This cooperative stance, along with the impressive depth of his original Romulan thesis, opened doors for Montgomery at the Daystrom Institute. Awarded an observer's position, he was granted the freedom to engage in critical lab work. Leveraging his foundational expertise in Romulan cloaking technology, he authored another influential thesis in Temporal Mechanics, pushing the boundaries of Starfleet's theoretical understanding.
Starfleet History As his observer term concluded, Montgomery successfully applied to Starfleet Academy, propelled by his solid academic record at Daystrom. Though older than most cadets, he felt an insatiable desire to take a leading scientific role on a starship. His curriculum was rigorous, including courses in Temporal Mechanics, Exochemistry, and Subatomic Physics, rounding off his already extensive qualifications. In 2392, Montgomery graduated with commendable grades, earning him a commission as Science Officer aboard the USS Antares, a task group flagship.

His fit with the crew of the Antares was immediate and profound. The Chief Science Officer, an elderly human, took particular interest in Montgomery's multi-cultural experiences. Disaster struck when an accidental activation of a planet-wide defence system on an apparently dormant planet exposed the crew to fatal levels of Seletron Radiation. Tragedy claimed the life of the Chief Science Officer, and Montgomery, now the highest-ranking science official, took up the mantle. His organizational skills shone as he managed an effective science department for several years until the ship was decommissioned.

Yearning for the stars, Montgomery returned briefly to the Daystrom Institute but soon secured a new commission aboard the USS Asgard, operating within the Phendana Drifts. As Chief Science Officer, he pioneered the exploration of a rare Gallicite ore asteroid, gaining local fame and special recognition from Daystrom for the innovative magnetic suits he developed. However, this chapter closed abruptly when Montgomery sustained a severe injury during a confrontation with Klingon pirates. Sent back to Earth for years-long recuperation, he continued his research in temporal field mechanics and occasionally lectured at the Academy.

Fully recovered from his injuries, Montgomery faced a crossroads in his life. The position he had once held aboard the USS Asgard had long been filled, compelling him to reassess his goals and ambitions. Feeling the inexorable pull of the stars, he decided not to pursue further formal leadership training but to seek a role that aligned with his scientific prowess and on-board experience.

Then came the opportunity: a prestigious opening for a Science Officer aboard the USS Galileo, a research vessel primarily focused on planetary sciences. The ship's mission profile, deeply involved in studying and understanding various celestial bodies and their phenomena, resonated with his intrinsic scientific curiosity. The USS Galileo offered a platform where his skills and expertise could be crucial, providing the unique chance to explore and analyze uncharted planets and their mysteries.

Montgomery Vala couldn't resist the allure of such a specialized mission. The opportunity to delve into planetary studies, to uncover the hidden secrets of the cosmos, and to expand the frontiers of knowledge seemed too tantalizing to pass up. It was an ideal match for someone of his skill set, experience, and thirst for uncharted horizons.

With the Romulan chapter of his life fading into history and the promise of pioneering planetary research beckoning, Montgomery found himself at another crucial point in his extraordinary journey.

Having submitted his application, he now waits for a response, reflecting upon the myriad twists and turns of his life. As he stands on the cusp of this new adventure, Montgomery Vala is filled with a sense of anticipation and hope, eager for the stories that will unfold aboard the USS Galileo.
Medical History Romulan Years (Dhaelthra IV)
2345: Diagnosed with mild Rh'Vax Syndrome, a common Romulan childhood ailment; successfully treated.
2351: Sustained a broken arm during survival training; arm healed without complications.

Romulan Academy for Science and Technology
2359: Routine physicals; no major health issues reported.
2360: Required emergency medical treatment for a laboratory chemical burn; recovered with minor scarring.

Escape from the Romulan Empire
2373: Sustained a permanent knee injury while evading capture by the Tal Shiar. Mobility impacted, but adaptive devices and treatments have minimized limitations.

Daystrom Institute (Observer Period)
2376: Routine medical examination; minor Vitamin B12 deficiency detected and treated.
2377: Brief hospitalization due to an allergic reaction to a synthetic chemical compound; recovered without incident.

Starfleet Academy
2378: Inoculated against common Federation spaceborne illnesses.
2380: Psychological evaluation notes mild anxiety related to societal acceptance but otherwise mentally fit for duty.

USS Antares
2382: Treated for minor radiation exposure; cleared by Medical Officer.
2384: Self-exposed to a highly virulent plague to test an experimental cure. Cure was successful, and Vala made a full recovery after a period of quarantine and observation. The event was noted for its ethical complications but ultimately deemed necessary under the circumstances.

Daystrom Institute (Return Period)
2385: Annual physical; no major health issues reported.

USS Asgard
2386: Required treatment for a deep laceration on his right thigh after an accident during an away mission; recovered fully.
2388: Severely injured during a confrontation with Klingon pirates; multiple fractures and internal injuries sustained. Medically evacuated to Earth for intensive care and surgical intervention.

Medical Leave & Daystrom Institute (Research)
2388: Entered a lengthy physical rehabilitation program; focused on regaining muscle mass and mobility.
2389: Psychological evaluation indicates mild post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following the attack; began counselling.
2391: Cleared for active duty after final medical and psychological evaluations.

Pending Assignment
2391: Awaiting new assignment; recent medical examinations indicate he is fit for duty, with the noted limitation on knee mobility.
Service Record Observer Period
2373-2375: Observer, Daystrom Institute
Specialization: Cloaking Technologies and Temporal Mechanics
Notable Contribution: Authored a thesis on Temporal Mechanics based on prior experience with Romulan cloaking technology

Academic Training
2375-2379: Cadet, Starfleet Academy
Courses: Temporal Mechanics, Exochemistry, Subatomic Physics
Graduation: 2382
Commissioned as Science Officer upon graduation

Early Career
2379-2385: Science Officer, USS Antares (Task Group Flagship)
Events: Exposed to planet-wide automatic defense system
Promoted to Chief Science Officer after predecessor was exposed to fatal amounts of Seletron Radiation
2385: USS Antares decommissioned, Crew disbanded

Return to Daystrom
2385-2386: Research Scientist, Daystrom Institute
Research Focus: Temporal Field Mechanics
Brief Lecture Stints at Starfleet Academy

Subsequent Service
2386-2388: Chief Science Officer, USS Asgard (Norway Class)
Notable Event: Exploration of rare Gallicite ore asteroid; invention of magnetic suits
Injured during an attack by Klingon pirates; sent back to Earth for intensive care

Medical Leave and Research
2388-2392: Medical Leave and Researcher, Daystrom Institute
Research Focus: Gallicite Exploitation and Temporal Field Mechanics
Brief Lecture Stints at Starfleet Academy

Latest Assignment
2392-Present: Awaiting new assignment, Applied for position aboard the USS Galileo

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